By FAZLULLAH for RAHAMATABAD.COM
Date: February 21, 2025

New Delhi: In a significant move to strengthen economic ties, Israel and India are working towards finalizing a long-discussed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) by the end of 2025. This agreement is expected to enhance bilateral trade, technology exchange, and investment opportunities between the two nations.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz recently confirmed that discussions have intensified, with both sides committed to removing trade barriers and expanding cooperation in key sectors such as defense, cybersecurity, agriculture, and renewable energy. India, one of Israel’s largest trading partners in Asia, is keen on leveraging Israeli expertise in technology and water management.

The proposed FTA is expected to provide significant benefits, including reduced tariffs on various goods, increased investment flow, and strengthened economic ties between the two strategic allies. The deal could also pave the way for greater collaboration in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence and semiconductor manufacturing.

With India’s expanding global trade footprint and Israel’s reputation for technological innovation, the agreement has the potential to reshape economic dynamics in the region. Experts believe that a successful FTA could boost annual trade between the two nations beyond $20 billion in the coming years.

Despite the enthusiasm, challenges remain, including negotiations on specific trade terms and balancing domestic industries’ interests. However, both nations appear determined to overcome these hurdles and finalize the deal soon.